Studies reveal 10 lifestyle reasons why some people live more than others

Scientists and researchers around the world have long been engaged in research on the mysteries of aging. One thing’s for sure: many factors could be combined that would eventually allow us to reach the age of 100 years. It is believed that genes determine the duration of life by about 25-30%. This means that 70% or so are determined by other external factors and lifestyle habits.

The following 10 signs can indicate whether you will be among the selected few who will have a very long life.

#1. Your weight depends on certain parts of the body. Several studies that have examined elderly people around the world show that a couple of extra pounds on the hips are not necessarily a bad sign. Do not deprive yourself of chocolate or alcohol, but it is important that you consume those things moderately. However, if fat is collected around your stomach, you should be careful because of the increased risk of heart attacks, high blood pressure and strokes. Unbalanced diets can also reduce life expectancy.

#2. Moving fast, moving a lot. The University of Pittsburgh measured the pace of movement of several thousand retirees. Those who walk and move faster have a significantly higher life expectancy. Researchers attribute this to the fact that people who move fast tend to be more flexible overall. It can be safely assumed that a daily walk is very beneficial for your heart. In addition, if you are a fast mover, it usually means you’re a determined person.

#3. You are stubborn. In southern Italy there is a region called Cilento where many elderly people live. A group of scientists who visited the area found that residents are not particularly active and don’t have a particularly healthy diet. However, they are very persistent and hardworking. They know what they want and it's hard to dissuade them from striving to achieve their goals. If the inhabitants of Cilento led a healthier lifestyle, they would, perhaps, live even longer.

#4. You have many friends. Men and women who have many friends live longer and remain more active and healthy in old age. The University of Brigham Young proved this after they conducted the investigation. Having many good friends, relatives, neighbors and acquaintances around you is important. It helps overcome negative experiences more easily, reduces stress and enhances activity.

Take just a few minutes out of each day to bring yourself to a state of calm and wellness and balance your life using a combination of guided meditations and mindfulness techniques. The techniques are a simple, practical relaxation method for anyone.

#5. You are wealthy and educated. A few years ago, the Berlin Institute for Population and Development caused some excitement with one of its surveys. Researchers claimed that people who are better educated and financially secure, in developed countries such as Germany, live up to 12 years longer than those who are less privileged. And the reason for this difference is financial problems that increase stress levels, which can lead to mental problems and illnesses, in addition to lack of exercise, obesity and smoking. Wealthy people not only tend to pay more attention to their health, but also have a higher level of education. Healthy curiosity supports common physical well-being.

Credit: Freepik

#6. You have a rich social life. Various surveys show that those people who cared and helped others throughout their lives also live a longer life. Researchers believe that caring for the sick and needy keeps aging people mentally and physically active, and also helps to keep the social aspects of their life intact. Of course, this is true for as long as the responsibility does not become a burden.

#7. You like to nap. Do you like to take a post-lunch nap? Then you have something in common with the representatives of the team of 100-year-olds. In the south of Italy, in Japan or in California, daily napping is seen as a synonym for longevity. It helps calm your nerves. However, people who snore violate the recovery phase during sleep and this can even lead to illness.

#8. You eat a lot of vegetables. Okinawa Prefecture in Japan is known for being an island where people claim to live to a very old age and are considered the oldest inhabitants on earth. The prefecture is actually very poor. Scientists believe that the secret of life expectancy is in their diet. Each resident consumes about two pounds of vegetables a day. Poverty in the region does not upset people, who gladly eat a lot of vegetables during the day and do not complain about life.

Credit: Freepik

#9. You are a positive thinker. Regardless of where you go or whom you ask, all 100-year-olds have one thing in common: they are all optimists. Their glasses are always half full because life is worth it, they have a strong will to live and they trust their abilities. Optimism prevails over pessimism.

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#10. You are a woman. Although healthy eating, exercise and the right attitude to life are important factors for achieving longevity, it is common knowledge that women have a longer lifespan than men. Men, by and large, have mainly themselves to blame: they smoke more, drink more, eat less vegetables, engage in riskier things and see their doctor less. In addition, men care less for others than women, and it is more difficult for them to maintain social contacts. Therefore, women have proven that lifestyle influences age.

The BetterMe Team wants you and those close to you to live a healthy, happy life! Your health is a valuable thing; look after your body and your mind so that you can live your life to the fullest – Remember you only get one!

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This article is solely for informational purposes and is not intended to provide medical advice. BetterMe doesn’t take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, exercise, diet, application of medication or any similar action which results from reading or following the information contained in this article. Before undertaking any course of treatment please consult with your physician or other health care provider.